From the era of
the gladiator to that of the avid dart player, the need
for entertainment has catalyzed some fairly interesting
inventions. Although much less morbid than publicized
killing spectacles, the game of darts is one such
invention that has a rich and interesting history.

The theory behind the origin of darts is slightly
controversial because of gaps in the written record of
history. Most historians and dart experts agree,
however, that the game was the result of some kind of
military exercise among British soldiers. Before the
time of the British Empire, or in between conflicts,
soldiers often grew restless and sought sources of
entertainment. In their glorious militant machismo, they
decided to challenge each other to a contest of sorts in
the area of spear throwing. The soldiers would shorten
their spears or arrows and throw them at the bottom of
an empty wine barrel. Eventually, the barrel evolved
into the cross section of a tree, the rings of which
worked ideally for scorekeeping purposes. Bored British
soldiers would retire from their daily duties, fashion
targets from wood or barrel, and head to the pubs to
challenge their comrades. Often times, pub owners would
give discounts to those who would bring targets or help
maintain them, as the boards were often difficult to
keep up when they were made of wood.

At one point, the game of darts was under legal fire, as
English law during the time of the game's inception
prohibited "games of chance," or gambling. When this was
taken to the courts, the particular pub owner who was
being prosecuted showcased his skill by hitting the same
number three times in a row, proving that the game of
darts is indeed a game of precision and concentration.
Many fans are unaware of this act of valor in the
preservation of the wonderful game of darts.

The establishment and maintenance of the British Empire
had no adverse effect on the game that was developing at
that time. In fact, it contributed to the game's
popularity. In true sporting fashion, the Brits shared
their game with conquered peoples, effectively spreading
it throughout the massive empire that they created. To
give a little context as to the sheer breadth of this
empire, it was said that the sun could never set on it.
Regarding the origins of the game in America, the
pilgrims that travelled on the Mayflower were avid players
themselves. After they settled, the game flourished in
America just as it did in England. The widespread
popularity of this game eventually led to the
establishment of official rules, regulations, and even
tournaments.

The official rules dictate that one should stand
anywhere from 7 to 8 feet from the board, behind the
"throwing line," before throwing any darts. The most
typical dartboard that people are familiar with today,
although hardcore traditionalists may still prefer wine
barrels, is referred to as the "clock" board because of
it's design. Although the rules of play are also subject
to slight variation, most people agree on the general
format: two teams of players alternate turns, throwing
three darts per team in an attempt to rack up the most
points. These rules can be very hazily defined in
situations where the players may be intoxicated, which
actually allows for many creative developments within
the sport.

Darts can be taken lightly as a game or seriously as a
sport. Regardless of the demographic, as the game allows
for participants of any physical fitness level, learning
the history of darts and how the game evolved can add
substance to the experience of "throwing a few" at the
bar.